Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority has announced plans to build a new thoroughbred training center at Shamrock Farm near Woodbine in Carroll County. The goal is to create one of the best equine training centers in the world, with space for over 800 horses and room for future expansion. The decision to build at Shamrock Farm was made collaboratively with input from Maryland’s horsemen and other stakeholders.
The new facility will be located just 20 miles from Pimlico Racecourse and will support the long-term growth and sustainability of Maryland’s thoroughbred community. It will feature a one-mile dirt oval track, housing, kitchen areas, a recreation center for stable-area workers, and ample grazing and turnout areas. The site was chosen after a rigorous evaluation process that considered factors such as location, natural resources, topography, transportation, and cost of acquisition and development.
The Maryland Jockey Club and the MTROA will continue to use Laurel Park as a transition facility while Pimlico and the new training center are being constructed. Once completed, all racing at Laurel Park will end, and the property will be redeveloped. The new training center at Shamrock Farm is seen as a pivotal step forward for Maryland’s racing community and will provide modern infrastructure to ensure the future viability of the industry.
